So, you’re diving certified, and you’ve assembled part of your gear, including your tank and mask. And now you’re on the hunt for the best entry-level scuba diving regulators to find your ideal reg.
If you want the best in an entry-level scuba diving regulator, look for a balanced or over-balanced design. This ensures you get the best breathing performance underwater. Also, consider the weight, price, durability, number of ports, and ease of maintenance. Out of all regs, the Scubapro MK2 EVO/R195 tops the list thanks to its suitability for all diving environments.
While plenty of entry-level scuba diving regulators are available, reviewing a handful can be daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this guide featuring the best in the market.
Table of Contents
The Quick List – 5 Top Entry-Level Scuba Diving Regs
- Best for all diving environments: Scubapro MK2 EVO/R195 Regulator
- Best user-friendly regulator: Apeks AT20 Regulator
- Best for comfort: HOG D3 Sealed Zenith Regulator
- Best budget-friendly regulator: Cressi XS Compact AC2 Regulator
- Best for cold water environments: Atomic B2 Swivel Regulator
Disclaimer: We are entirely reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. This does not affect our opinion of the products linked, which is 100% impartial and unbiased.
What to Look for in an Entry-Level Scuba Diving Regulator
Divers are spoiled for choice when it comes to intermediate and beginner diving regulators. As a result, finding the proper entry-level scuba diving regulator for you can be challenging.
However, there are certain features and aspects to look out for to narrow your search. These include:
- Durability: A reg made of high-quality materials is your best bet as it will withstand wear and tear while diving.
- Balanced or overbalanced design: These provide better breathing performance at depth than an unbalanced construction.
- Number of ports: These allow you to attach additional components to your reg, such as a dive computer, wetsuit, and buoyancy control device (BCD). Two high-pressure and three low-pressure ports are ideal for an entry-level scuba diving regulator.
- Comfort: The best entry-level scuba diving regulators fit comfortably in your mouth. Also, the hose is an appropriate length so as not to pull your head back while diving.
- Price: Entry-level regulators are typically more affordable than high-end models. But also let your budget guide your decision.
- Weight: If you travel often, a lightweight regulator is ideal.
- Valve: DIN valves are much safer and more suitable than INT or Yoke valves. However, pick either INT or Yoke if DIN isn’t available in your area.
- Ease of maintenance: Since you’ll have to maintain your regulator regularly, look for one that’s easy to take apart and clean.
9 Entry-Level Scuba Diving Regulators Worth the Investment
1. Scubapro MK2 EVO/R195 Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best for All Diving Environments
Whether you plan to dive in frigid water or warm conditions, the MK2 EVO/R195 is the best companion. The reg performs well in icy waters when equipped with Scubapro’s Extended Thermal Insulating System (XTIS). And although the first stage is unbalanced, the breathing performance is excellent in all other environments. This is all thanks to Scubapro’s patented Venturi Initiated Vacuum Assist (VIVA) system.
What You Need to Know
Boasting a dependable, low-maintenance design, the Scubapro MK2 EVO/R195 regulator is the perfect scuba regulator for beginners. It combines the Mark 2 EVO first stage with the improved R195 second stage.
The first stage features Scubapro’s standard Flow-By-Piston design. This is the most simple and reliable regulator design out there, so you won’t need to worry about complexity with this reg.
Moreover, the second stage combines a classic downstream valve with a large diaphragm and a traditional purge button. It’s incredibly reliable and robust, making it perfect for new divers.
Specifications
- Price: $499.00
- Fittings: DIN or Yoke
- First stage: Non-Balanced Flow-By-Piston; Chrome Plated Brass
- Second stage: Downstream Demand Valve; Valve Housing: Techno-Polymer Plastic
- Ports: Two high-pressure, four low-pressure
- Weight: 1.9 lbs. (904g)
What We Like
- Simple, dependable, and easy to maintain.
- Second stage construction combines a classic downstream valve with a large diaphragm.
- Functional purge and VIVA switch for smooth and frictionless breathing.
- Ideal for warm, moderate, and icy water conditions.
What We Don’t Like
- Non-balanced first stage.
- A bit of inhalation effort is required to overcome the spring tension of the valve.
2. Apeks AT20 Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best User-Friendly Regulator
The AT20 is one of Apeks’ more affordable and high-performing regulators. The breathing performance on this reg is outstanding, featuring a balanced first-stage design and a highly efficient exhaust valve. Although it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of other regs, it’s hands down one of the best entry-level scuba diving regulators.
What You Need to Know
The Apeks AT20 regulator offers excellent value for a modest price to divers seeking a high-performance, entry-level reg. Boasting a balanced first stage and a pneumatically balanced second stage, you can rest assured that this reg will remain reliable at all depths.
Moreover, this beginner diving regulator features a highly efficient exhaust valve. So, the breathing performance is further enhanced. Also, it has an integrated venturi control to improve performance at depth while keeping surface free flow to a minimum.
Specifications
- Price: $449
- Fittings: Yoke
- First stage: Balanced diaphragm design; Chrome Over Marine Brass
- Second stage: Pneumatically Balanced
- Ports: One high-pressure, four medium-pressure
- Weight: 2.4 lbs. (1088g)
What We Like
- Balanced diaphragm first stage that provides consistent airflow.
- Provides excellent value for money.
- Large purge button for easy use, even with gloves.
- Easy to use and maintain, so it’s ideal for novice divers.
What We Don’t Like
- Only has one high-pressure port, so there is limited customization.
- Might not be suitable for cold water use.
3. HOG D3 Sealed Zenith Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best for Comfort
This reg is worth the investment with a compact design and a wide range of features. It’s built with a rigid second-stage face cover to reduce the ‘rot away’ appearance that occurs with other brands. And it offers a 360-degree rotating LP swivel. As a result, hoses won’t tangle, and you can dive without experiencing strain.
What You Need to Know
The Hog D3 Sealed Zenith Regulator Set is one of Hog’s most popular diaphragm regulators. This is due to its D3 first stage and Zenith second stage, which lend this reg outstanding performance.
This regulator’s second stage is the most commendable part. It features a rigid face cover and a positive-action purge button with diaphragm protection. Together, these components reduce the possibility of free flow and diaphragm pinching.
Furthermore, this regulator has outstanding breathing performance thanks to its metal gas tube and precision components. And it retains heat and moisture from exhaled breath. Therefore, when diving in cold water, the reg won’t freeze, and you won’t experience dry mouth.
Specifications
- Price: $399.95
- Fittings: DIN or Yoke
- First stage: Balanced Diaphragm
- Second stage: Balanced; Adjustable
- Ports: Two high-pressure, four low-pressure
- Weight: 4.4 lbs (2kg)
What We Like
- Features a balanced adjustable second stage with Venturi on/off.
- Sealed balanced diaphragm first stage.
- Compact in size, making it suitable for travel and easy handling underwater.
- 360-degree rotating LP swivel.
- Stiff front purge button to prevent strong currents from pushing it.
What We Don’t Like
- Heavier second stage than other affordable scuba regulators.
- Might be challenging to find a certified service technician.
4. Cressi XS Compact AC2 Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best Budget-Friendly Regulator
You’ve found your match if you’re looking for scuba regulators under $500 that don’t compromise on quality. The Cressi XS Compact AC2 is ideal for new and recreational divers who prefer exploring shallow reefs over deep sea excursions. While it’s prone to free flow when entering the water, it’s incredibly reliable and comfortable, suiting budget-conscious divers.
What You Need to Know
Dependability, reliability, and comfort are the hallmarks of the Cressi XS Compact AC2 regulator. Fitted with a flow-by-piston first stage, this reg delivers excellent breathing performance. So, if you plan to explore shallow reefs, you can rest assured that the airflow will be sufficient.
The reliable and durable second stage further makes the AC2 one of the ideal scuba regulators for beginners. It features a downstream demand valve mechanism. And it’s constructed from robust, corrosion-resistant hi-tech polymers.
Specifications
- Price: $269.95
- Fittings: DIN or Yoke
- First stage: Non-Balanced Flow-By Piston; Chromed Brass
- Second stage: Downstream Demand Valve; Polymer Plastic, Silicone Rubber
- Ports: Two high-pressure, four low-pressure
- Weight: 2.1 lbs. (994g) w/hose
What We Like
- Inexpensive compared to other beginner-friendly regulators.
- Lightweight and comfortable to use.
- Large soft purge cover for easy clearing of the second stage.
- Easy on the jaw, so suitable for prolonged use.
What We Don’t Like
- Unbalanced first stage, which can be susceptible to pressure at depth.
- Occasionally free flows upon entering the water.
5. Atomic B2 Swivel Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best for Cold Water Environments
While the price tag on this reg might be extreme for new divers, it’s worth the investment. Atomic Aquatics is notorious for producing long-lasting, unmatched regulators, and that’s not far from the truth with the B2. Featuring a lightweight, high performance and freeze-protected design, the B2 is the ideal entry-level scuba diving regulator for cold water environments.
What You Need to Know
The Atomic B2 regulator lives up to Atomic Aquatics’ reputation of designing high-performance regs. In fact, it outshines its predecessor – the popular Atomic B1 – with a superior first and second stage.
Boasting a compact, high-performance chrome-plated brass first stage, the B2 ensures consistent airflow. It’s also low friction and requires little maintenance thanks to its innovative construction.
Furthermore, the B2’s second stage is a balanced linear flow design. This guarantees ease of breathing at all depths and in various conditions. Plus, it’s made of titanium, so it’s one of the best entry-level scuba diving regulators for travel.
Specifications
- Price: $849.50
- Fittings: DIN or Yoke
- First stage: Balanced Flow-Through Piston; Chrome Plated Brass & 316-Grade Stainless Steel
- Second stage: Pneumatically-Balanced; Demand Valve Body; Lever & Sealing Orifice Titanium
- Ports: Two high-pressure, five low-pressure
- Weight: 2.5 lbs. (1,143 g)
What We Like
- Comfortable, all-titanium second stage.
- Two years or 300 dives without service.
- Ease of breathing and zero breathing resistance.
- Balanced and sealed piston design, which enhances performance and reliability.
- Equipped with insulated parts for freezing protection in cold water environments.
What We Don’t Like
- May encounter failures with swivel.
- Extremely sensitive second stage, so dents and marks can quickly appear.
6. Aqualung Titan Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best for Travel
The last thing any traveler needs is a regulator that cuts into their allowed baggage weight. With the Aqualung Titan, you won’t have to worry about that. It’s one of the best entry-level scuba diving regulators because of its lightweight design. While it does not shift to snorkeling easily, it provides optimal and consistent breathing performance.
What You Need to Know
The ethe of Aqualung’s scuba regulators are comfort, ease of breathing, peak performance, and control. And the Titan lives up to those philosophies with its fresh and innovative design.
It boasts a balanced first stage, which delivers consistent airflow regardless of depth. Additionally, the second stage features a downstream demand valve ABS housing and a Comfo-Bite mouthpiece.
Overall, the Titan is worth the bet because it offers top-notch performance and easy maintenance.
Specifications
- Price: $ 475.00
- Fittings: DIN or Yoke
- First stage: Balanced Diaphragm; Chrome Plated Brass
- Second stage: Downstream Demand Valve; ABS, Polycarbonate, Polyurethane, Silicone Hose
- Ports: Two high-pressure, five low-pressure
- Weight: 2.2 lbs (1000 g)
What We Like
- Easy to maintain thanks to minimal components and easy access to the exhaust valve.
- Abrasion and tear-resistant, and shock-protected.
- Lightweight and compact due to construction that uses less brass.
- Does not cause jaw fatigue.
What We Don’t Like
- Does not shift to snorkeling easily.
7. Palantic AS103 Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best Value for Money
The Palantic AS103 might be one of the most affordable scuba regulators. But that doesn’t mean it won’t knock your socks off. With an over-balanced first stage and comfortable silicon mouthpiece, you’ll get top-notch performance and comfort in one reasonably-priced package.
What You Need to Know
The Palantic AS103 is the way to go for new and intermediate divers alike. It’s reliable and effective thanks to its over-balanced, chromium-plated brass body first stage. So, expect consistent airflow while diving in warm water environments.
Furthermore, the AS103 features environmental sealing, so contaminants won’t enter the first stage if you dive in murky water.
Specifications
- Price: $280.99
- Fittings: DIN or Yoke
- First stage: Over-balanced; Chromium-plated brass body – Stainless steel springs
- Second stage: Non-adjustable
- Ports: Two high-pressure, five intermediate-pressure
- Weight: 3.5 lbs (1.58 kg)
What We Like
- One of the most affordable scuba diving regulators available.
- Over-balanced first stage for enhanced diving performance.
- Comfortable silicone mouthpiece.
- Large purge button.
What We Don’t Like
- Not suitable for cold water conditions.
- Might not breathe as easily as other regulators.
- Does not have an airflow restriction valve.
8. Oceanic Delta 5 eDX Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best for Smooth Breathing at All Depths
Breathing performance is something you can’t compromise on with any regulator. So, the good thing about the Oceanic Delta 5 eDX is that it delivers superior airflow regardless of depth. This is all due to its balanced diaphragm first stage.
What You Need to Know
Available with a DIN or Yoke valve, the Oceanic Delta 5 eDX meets the needs of various divers. It has a balanced diaphragm first stage that’s environmentally sealed. And it features a ‘heat exchanger’ between the first and second stages to improve cold water performance.
Moreover, the eDX has a pneumatically balanced, all-metal valve body second stage, which is exceptionally light. And it’s designed to prevent bubbles from blocking your line of sight while diving. Plus, with its dive/pre-dive venturi lever, you can keep free flow at bay.
Specifications
- Price: $599.95
- Fittings: DIN or Yoke
- First stage: Balanced Diaphragm; Cold Forged Chromed Marine Brass
- Second stage: Pneumatically Balanced; Metal Valve Body
- Ports: Two high-pressure, four low-pressure
- Weight: 3.2 lbs (1.5 kg)
What We Like
- Pneumatically balanced second stage allows for smooth breathing at high and low pressures.
- First stage is environmentally sealed and cold-water ready.
- Has an ergonomic exhalation system.
- Features a comfortable mouthpiece.
What We Don’t Like
- Might get free flow when upside down.
- Does not breathe as easily as a high-end regulator.
9. Aqualung Mikron Regulator
Our Expert Opinion: Best Compact Regulator
The Mikron is built with travelers and young adults in mind. Its small size makes it easy to transport and offers a comfortable fit for smaller mouths, unlike other entry-level scuba diving regulators. However, the Mikron provides outstanding performance at depth due to its over-balanced first stage.
What You Need to Know
The Aqualung Mikron is Aqualung’s most compact and lightweight regulator. However, despite being smaller than most affordable diving regulators, it delivers superior performance.
Built with an over-balanced first stage, the Mikron delivers exceptional airflow while diving. Plus, it’s environmentally sealed and features an innovative Auto-Closure Device (ACD) to prevent corrosion and silt from entering the first stage.
Furthermore, the Mikron’s second stage is pneumatically balanced. Therefore, expect smooth, effortless breathing. It also has an adjustment knob that allows you to adjust the opening effort and reduce free flow and breathing exertion underwater.
Specifications
- Price: $375.00
- Fittings: DIN or Yoke
- First stage: Over-Balanced Diaphragm; Chrome Plated Brass
- Second stage: Pneumatically Balanced Downstream Demand Valve; Techno-Polymer, Silicone
- Ports: Two high-pressure, four low-pressure
- Weight: 1.97 lbs. (893 g)
What We Like
- Smallest and lightest regulator offered by Aqualung.
- Pneumatically balanced, ensuring smooth and easy breathing.
- Convenient for travel and reduces baggage weight thanks to compact and lightweight design.
- Equipped with Aqualung’s patented Auto-Closure Device (ACD), which keeps corrosive water out of the first stage.
- Balanced diaphragm first stage.
What We Don’t Like
- Might not be suitable for some adult divers.
Maintaining Your Scuba Diving Regulator
Once you purchase your scuba diving regulator, it’s essential that you maintain it after every dive. This is crucial to maximize its life span and ensure the best possible performance. Therefore, follow the below steps after each dive.
1. Dry and Replace the Dustcap
Upon detaching your regulator from the cylinder valve, dry the dustcap first. This is vital to keep water from entering the first stage.
You can dry the dustcap with a microfiber towel. Alternatively, blow the water off with air from the tank. Afterward, securely screw the dust cap over the first stage inlet fitting.
2. Rinse Thoroughly with Fresh Water
Rinse off your regulator with fresh water to remove any salt or sand.
3. Soak in Tap Water
Since rinsing will not thoroughly clean your regulator, you’ll need to soak it in tap water. The water should ideally be warm but not over 49°C (120°F). And it should soak for at least one hour.
It’s often recommended that you pressurize the regulator by attaching it to a charged scuba cylinder and opening the cylinder valve. This will allow you to thoroughly soak the first and second stages without moisture and/or contaminants entering the components.
If that approach isn’t feasible, you can soak your regulator unpressurized. However, ensure the dust cap is securely fastened, and the second-stage purge buttons aren’t pushed in.
For adjustable model regulators, bear in mind that you should ensure the second stage inhalation control knob is turned clockwise (or ‘in’) before soaking. Also, do not loosen the first stage yoke screw or else moisture will enter the regulator, and it will require a full service.
4. Work the Levers/Buttons
While your regulator is submerged, work any levers and buttons back and forth or move the IVS control switch from ‘MIN’ to ‘MAX.’ You may also carefully turn the inhalation control knob back and forth – however, no more than a quarter turn.
Working the levers and buttons gently ensures you loosen any contaminants or particles lodged in your regulator. This includes salt and mineral deposits.
However, avoid pushing the purge button if your regulator is not pressurized. This will allow water into the second and possibly the first stages, which can lead to issues.
5. Flush With a Pressurized Stream of Water
After a good soak, you should flush your regulator with a pressurized stream of water. This applies specifically to the following components:
- The first stage ambient chamber (non-environmentally sealed models)
- The second stage mouthpiece
- The openings in the second stage
This process ensures that salt and mineral deposits that weren’t removed during the soak are loosened.
6. Dry Thoroughly
Now your regulator is ready for storage. However, it would be best if you first let it dry thoroughly. Avoid leaving it in the sun, as the rubber parts could be adversely affected.
7. Store Properly
Store your regulator in a cool, dry spot, avoiding areas with sunlight and chemical fumes like chlorine. Also, position the hoses so they aren’t kinked.
Takeaway
With a tank, a mask, and other scuba gear required to go on your diving adventure, the costs of scuba diving can rack up quickly. Therefore, you might want to cut down on expenses with your regulator.
The best entry-level scuba diving regulators are affordable without compromising on quality. A balanced first stage is best to ensure optimal breathing performance at all depths. Also, look out for durable materials like brass and a lightweight design featuring titanium if you plan to travel often.
